The Defending Champion and runaway leader in The Ultimate Solo Challenge, Bernard Stamm, is currently expected to arrive in the finish port of Bilbao between 12:00 and 14:00 local time (10:00 - 12:00 GMT). The Swiss skipper, who has sailed an exceptional race and looks guaranteed to retain his title in this classic event, continues to lead the fleet towards the end of their dramatic circumnavigation of the planet following the start of Leg Three in Norfolk, Virginia (USA) on April 18.
Bernard will be met by hundreds of friends, family, sponsors and media, and will be cheered on by the expectant people of Bilbao, celebrating a public holiday on Monday. Quotes, photographs and TV images will be available following the arrival.
Second place Kojiro Shiraishi is only 81 miles behind Stamm and is expected to follow the skipper into Bilbao on Monday evening.
Boat Positions at 10:20 UTC April 29
1. Cheminees Poujoulat, Bernard Stamm, 285 nm to finish
2. Spirit of Yukoh, Kojiro Shiraishi, 81 nm to leader
3. SAGA Insurance, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, 671
4. PAKEA, Unai Basurko, 954
5. A Southern Man-AGD, Graham Dalton, 2970
